“Should is how other people want us to live our lives. It’s all of the expectations that others layer upon us. The journey to Should can be smooth, the rewards can seem clear, and the options are often plentiful.
Must is different. Must is who we are, what we believe, and what we do when we are alone with our truest, most authentic self. It’s that which calls to us most deeply. It’s our convictions, our passions, our deepest held urges and desires — unavoidable, undeniable, and inexplicable. Unlike Should, Must doesn’t accept compromises.”
― Elle Luna
Pure joy in book form. That’s how I’d describe this work of art. A strong case for the importance of doing the things you love. Making time for whatever makes you feel alive. It’s a push in the direction of joy. A visual delight, filled with Luna’s empowering words and colourful watercolour illustrations, it lifts my spirits every time.
With a healthy sprinkling of quotes from artists, writers, activists and psychologists, this book is overflowing with Luna’s ideas and suggestions for a.) discovering what it is you love, then b.) squeezing that thing you love into your life. And motivating yourself to actually do it.
“Integrating solitude into our lives must be done in sustainable everyday ways: plant a garden, take three deep breaths, wash the dishes, take time each day to feel the sun against your face..”.
“To choose Must requires action. You must do something. It is the small big moment that can take days, years, perhaps a lifetime to begin. And when you’re ready, you choose it by doing something – anything – regardless if it’s big or small….To choose Must is to: Play one chord, clear off the desk, have that conversation, brainstorm on that topic..”
Luna explains the differences between a job, a career and a calling. “You might have a nine-to-five job while you pursue your calling on nights and weekends…You get to play with these three types of work and decide what’s right for you and your life.”
She also addresses the four big concerns people have about doing what they love: money, time, space and vulnerability; offering tangible solutions and fresh perspectives on each.
“Will choosing ‘must’ make me rich? Yes. The wealthiest people I know have days and nights filled with life’s most priceless items: Having belly laughs with a friend, making tea before bed, smelling the rain..”
“Must is when we stop conforming to other people’s ideals and start connecting to our own — and this allows us to cultivate our full potential as individuals. Choosing Must is the greatest thing we can do with our lives.”
― Elle Luna
The Colourful Kind 